Friday, 13th December, 2013
David Villa has confirmed that Arsenal came to his door with a "good" offer in the January 2013 winter transfer window, but explained Barcelona vetoed the switch.
The Gunners were strongly linked with the Spain striker at that time and now Villa has indeed admitted they wanted to sign him from the Blaugrana.
Barcelona though had other ideas and were not keen on weakening their striking options in mid-season, which led to the proposal from Arsenal being rejected.
Villa, who ended up signing for Atletico Madrid this summer, told Canal +: "You all know that [the club who made the offer] was Arsenal.
relatedNewsStory
"The offer was very good for the club and great for me.
"[But Barcelona] did not think it was feasible that I could leave at that time. I was told that I was needed."
Villa is currently enjoying a new lease of life under coach Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid and helping Los Rojiblancos cut the figure of serious La Liga title contenders.
Indeed, Atletico Madrid are level on points with league leaders Barcelona, only trailing Villa's former club on goal difference.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
